Super Smash Bros. boss Masahiro Sakurai has spoken to IGN about the fourth installment in the series, revealing that he's keen to avoid unnecessary gimmicks and feels that adding more non-Nintendo characters might be detrimental to the game's focus.

"The GameCube controller is not the only way to control Smash Bros., so we will look into ways that fits the Wii U," explained Sakurai, who recently worked on the sublime Kid Icarus: Uprising. "The game system itself is complete, so we don’t want to make it 3D or introduce complicated controls just for the sake of it. However, I am thinking of ways we can introduce a slightly different, fun experience all the while keeping the usual frantic game play."

While rumours are circulating that Nintendo could be introducing more cameos in Super Smash Bros. 4, Sakurai was quick to cast doubt over the idea. "I think Snake and Sonic joining were fantastic," he added. "It made many fans happy, and it broadened the Smash Bros arena. However, introducing more non-Nintendo characters willy-nilly will lose the focus of the game, so I also recognise the need to narrow it down."

Super Smash Bros. 4 is expected some time next year, and will launch on both the 3DS and Wii U.

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